Persevere—You’ll like what comes next

Persevering in the midst of a trial is difficult. Giving up is appealing, but realistically, is surrender an option? If not…

How do we persevere?

First, we admit our humanity and our inability to go it alone.

In the Bible, we see Moses, Job, King David, John the Baptist, Jesus, and the Apostle Paul, to name a few, caught between the proverbial rock and hard place—with the hard place usually being death.

Job said, “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” (Job 2:9-10). We then see his humanity in the next chapter when he sits down and laments his own birth (Job 3). 

Jesus said, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.” He prayed twice for God to take the cup of crucifixion from him but ultimately yielded “may your will be done” (Matthew 26:38-42).  

The Apostle Paul “pleaded” three times for his thorn to be removed (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). 

We see each of these men in a state of human despair, yet they didn’t rely on humanity to save them, because, frankly, it wasn’t equal to the task. So what was their secret to persevering?

If you read further into the book of Job, the Gospels, and the letters written by the Apostle Paul, you’ll see that when these men cried out, it was to God.

As Christians, we know our perseverance comes from God. He said His grace is sufficient for all things. He’s not going to allow a trial into our lives that He's unwilling to equip us for. We must "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and delve into the Word and see God's promises and instructions laid out for us through His apostles.

But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. They said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires.” These are the people who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. But you, dear friends, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in God’s love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life. Jude 1:17-21 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Hebrews 12:1-3 

That sounds like a pretty good formula for persevering. If we keep our eyes firmly fixed on Jesus, we won’t grow spiritually faint and lose heart. We’ll also be able to throw off that which tries to hinder us—namely Satan.

But what’s the purpose of a trial? Why doesn’t God just fix things? In other words…

Why do we persevere?

…we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4 

…because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:3-4 

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 2 Peter 1:5-7 

Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers. 1 Timothy 4:15-16 

In addition to the spiritual growth we experience, our ultimate reward will be in heaven.

So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised. Hebrews 10:35-36 

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12 

Are you walking through a trial and having trouble persevering? Be encouraged by God’s Word that He keeps His promises, He walks with you through difficult times, and your faith will grow. In turn, you'll often find yourself in a position to encourage someone on the path behind you going through a similar trial.

Best of all, you’ll stand before God one day and hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21),  

Do you have a Bible verse that has encouraged you during difficult times?

If you need prayer, please leave a comment or email me confidential requests. I’d love to pray for you.

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

“Woman Climbing Rock” image courtesy of olovedog at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

“Young Woman Praying” image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici at FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

“Faith and Believe” image courtesy of the pathtraveler @FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

True Love?

Certain holidays, like Valentine’s Day, bring joy to some and sorrow to others. Though the holiday has traditionally meant expressing love to those we hold dear, if you’re not in a relationship, the mushy romance displayed can be both irritating and heartbreaking. Marketers tell us it’s the best day of the year to show love in a tangible way. Hmmm. A billion-dollar industry, Valentine’s Day, instead, should emulate love in its truest form.

But what is love?

Love is difficult to define. We know it by feelings, by the actions of those around us, by the longevity of those who choose to be in our lives, and sometimes even by the actions we refuse to tolerate in others—tough love. And sometimes we know it by its lack—between relationships, waiting for the “right one” to enter our lives.

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39

Wow. Can you think of another love equal to this expression by the Apostle Paul?

To say Paul’s life was difficult as a follower of Jesus is an understatement. Some of his persecution is recorded in 2 Corinthians 11. Yet, he never whined about his hardships, nor did he blame them on God. Instead, he embraced the idea of hardships as necessary to a Christian’s life. James continued this theme in his ministry. In doing so, their lives embodied the idea that, in spite of our trials, God is still present.

So then, how can Paul—despite his willingness to endure hardships and concede God’s presence in them—take it a step further and equate the totality of his life with God’s love? There’s only one logical answer.

It’s a love that never separates. How could love be defined any better? There’s not a human equation that even comes close.

No matter what unknown tomorrow brings, God’s love will be present. I don’t know about you, but that’s a tremendous comfort to me.

Reflection: Being alone during any holiday is tough, but especially on Valentine’s Day. You may have experienced this and prayed for someone special to spend your life with. Yet, how does God’s love manifest itself in your life? Is there a way for you to show it in a tangible way to others in your community—either through volunteering your time or resources? Spend some time in prayer asking God to show you how His love can flow through you and into others. While you’re doing this, you might discover that soulmate you’ve been praying for. 

If you'd like prayer, please leave a comment or email me confidential requests. I'd love to pray for your needs. 

God bless,

Laura

This post is a selection from my new devotional, While I'm Waiting, available for 99 cents on Amazon.com. This devotional offers encouragement to those waiting for an answer to prayer. 

What people are saying about While I’m Waiting:

“Hope. It’s a foundation of our faith, but a difficult concept to live out. Author Laura Hodges Poole understands that, and this devotional gives us the roadmap for the path from despair to hope. She writes from the perspective of someone who has traveled that road. Her honesty and humility draws us in, while her wisdom shows us how living in hope truly is possible. This book will have a coveted place on my bedside table and will be a resource that I return to again and again.”

~Edie Melson, Co-Director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and author of Prayers for My Soldier

“Author Laura Hodges Poole knows first-hand about the power of love and the gift of faith. With every inspirational word, she generously shares her innermost self. Laura openly writes about her personal trials and tribulations…the grief of losing her dear sister to suicide and the deep abiding love she has for family and friends. No matter the circumstance, Laura manages to draw from a well of love and hope. She eloquently expresses the depth of her faith and her very intimate relationship with God. Laura has “died to self” and trusts in our heavenly Father to guide her every step of the way. While I’m Waiting gives witness to Laura’s commitment to our loving Creator and her heartwarming devotion to Him.”    

~Dolores Ayotte, inspirational author of Up The Down Ladder: Simple Ideas to Overcome Depression and book reviewer

Click HERE to purchase

“Hearts Background” image courtesy of Feelart/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

“Love Puzzle on Laptop” image courtesy of Stuart Miles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

When The Going Gets Tough

We all know the cliché: When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Right? This implies, if we have enough moxie, we can endure anything just by being tough.

Well, there’s a reason hardships are called that—they’re hard.

God doesn’t allow trials in your life to determine your mettle—He already knows. Trials show you what you’re made of and strengthen you as a Christian.

A building inspector goes over new construction step-by-step, to uncover deficiencies or weaknesses that could jeopardize the entire structure. In the same way, our weakness of spirit needs to be exposed in order for us to become stronger.

The oft-quoted Bible verse, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength,” (Philippians 4:13) shows us that God doesn’t expect us to walk alone in trials, but this verse is validated only by suffering hardships.

You might shake your head and say, “But I’m already a strong follower of His. My faith is solid. I’m compassionate. Why should I have to suffer?”

The apostle Paul had a few things to say about this.

Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was pelted with stones, three times I was shipwrecked, I spent a night and a day in the open sea … I have labored and toiled … I have known hunger and thirst … I have been cold and naked. Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches … If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness. 2 Corinthians 11:24-30

Most Christians look to Paul as a standard bearer. If we are to grow to his level of commitment, the commitment first has to be tested. He didn’t develop strong faith outside of being shown his weaknesses.

James took the concept a step further. He said, Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

Not only do we develop perseverance, we become blessed through the trials.

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trials, because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

In turn, we’re able to bless others because of our trials. Take comfort in the knowledge that God knows the trials that lie ahead. He’s waiting in our tomorrows, ready to strengthen our spirit, our faith, and our mettle, and to bless us with the joy whose depth only comes from suffering first.

How can we consider trials pure joy? How do we persevere? Trials are exactly what they sound like—something to be avoided.

Instead, I challenge you to:

Count your blessings. It seems elementary, almost too simple—and at the same time difficult—to do in the midst of a storm. But even finding one or two small things to thank God for will drastically change your perspective and ability to persevere.

Find a Christian friend or family member to share your rough times—someone who will listen and pray for you, perhaps even offering practical advice when asked. Part of the reason God doesn’t shield Christians from hardships is to force us to grow together and carry one another’s burdens. Trying to be self-sufficient in this fallen world not only leads you away from other Christians, but from God. Often God puts someone in our path who has struggled with the same issues.

Reflection: Ask God to help you learn what He wants you to learn from your trial. It may not be readily apparent, even for years, but your willingness to be molded will have the desired effect—becoming more like Christ.

How can I pray for you today? Please leave a comment or email me confidential requests. I'd love to hear from you. J

God bless,

Laura

This post is a selection from my new devotional, While I’m Waiting, available for 99 cents on Amazon.com. 

What people are saying about While I’m Waiting:

“Hope. It’s a foundation of our faith, but a difficult concept to live out. Author Laura Hodges Poole understands that, and this devotional gives us the roadmap for the path from despair to hope. She writes from the perspective of someone who has traveled that road. Her honesty and humility draws us in, while her wisdom shows us how living in hope truly is possible. This book will have a coveted place on my bedside table and will be a resource that I return to again and again.”

~Edie Melson, Co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and author of Prayers for My Soldier

“Author Laura Hodges Poole knows first-hand about the power of love and the gift of faith. With every inspirational word, she generously shares her innermost self. Laura openly writes about her personal trials and tribulations…the grief of losing her dear sister to suicide and the deep abiding love she has for family and friends. No matter the circumstance, Laura manages to draw from a well of love and hope. She eloquently expresses the depth of her faith and her very intimate relationship with God. Laura has “died to self” and trusts in our heavenly Father to guide her every step of the way. While I’m Waiting gives witness to Laura’s commitment to our loving Creator and her heartwarming devotion to Him.”    

~Dolores Ayotte, inspirational author of Up The Down Ladder: Simple Ideas to Overcome Depression and book reviewer

Click HERE to purchase

While I’m Waiting

“Hard Times Ahead Means Risky Sign And Warning” image courtesy of Stuart Miles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

 “Difficult Sphere Means Hard Challenging Or Problematic” image courtesy of Stuart Miles/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

How to Become Rooted and Established

Josh and me at the park

“For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.” Ephesians 3:14-18

The Apostle Paul prayed often and was greatly burdened by the responsibility of not only winning souls to Christ, but teaching followers about Christ. He spent hours in the temple and teaching halls, once preaching so long a parishioner fell asleep and tumbled out of a window (Acts 20:7-12).

Paul’s prayers emphasize the urgency with which he wanted new Christians to be “rooted and established” in the love and knowledge of Christ. He knew firsthand how difficult the road of the cross is and what it took to be strengthened for the journey.

One way we can do this is to read our Bibles and pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance for discernment. I’ve heard many people say they don’t understand or wish they had a better grasp of the historical setting of the Bible or a deeper intellectual understanding of the basis of the Bible. Or they don’t know how to follow a particular topic thread through several books of the Bible. They yearn for answers, yet sadly, some Christians aren’t taught directly from the Bible in the churches they attend. Even when they are, time constraints of worship services don’t always allow for in-depth study to answer all of our questions.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15a

While Peter’s admonition mainly refers to a Christian’s testimony, being able to have a dialogue with a non-believer or fellow Christian about the Bible’s origin or history or answer questions about our faith is imperative. We live in difficult times, as have most believers, and being saturated in God’s Word and having a clear understanding of it is not optional, if our faith is challenged.  It also leads to a deeper relationship with God.

I’d like to share two reliable, time proven resources I’ve utilized in Bible study.  These will take you deeper than many contemporary Bible studies. Think of these like having access to a Bible seminary on your computer.

J. Vernon McGee was a leading authority on the Bible during the mid to late 20^th century. His program “Thru The Bible” is still heard worldwide and can be accessed through their website. The program methodically goes through the entire Bible in five years. That will give you an indication as to the depth of his teaching. Tons of free downloads including Bible book notes and outlines, study guides, and audio programs are available. All of his materials are designed in such a way that you can go through them on your own or along with his radio broadcasts. For years, I’ve listened to Dr. McGee, and his passion for Christ shines through all his teaching. His program can still be heard on some Christian radio stations including the Bible Broadcasting Network (BBN) out of Charlotte, NC. And speaking of BBN…

It’s my other recommended resource. Several years ago, this nationwide radio network added a Bible Institute to their website. Click here to access, then click "browse courses." I’ve taken a few of their courses after consulting my pastor as to their credibility. (I really had no doubt, but his endorsement made me feel better.) Whether it’s studying individual books, Bible characters, doctrine, end times, discipleship, relationships, leadership, etc., BBN Bible Institute has dozens of free classes to choose from, and you work at your own pace.

Please let me know if you decide to use one of these resources to deepen your Bible knowledge and how you liked it.

What Bible study have you participated in that you would recommend to others?

While you’re here, if you have a prayer request, I’d love to pray for you. Leave a comment or e-mail me confidential requests. There’s also a prayer list at the top of the blog if you’d like to join me in prayer for these needs.

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Bible image courtesy of Arvind Balaraman/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Live In The However

How Will I Finish?

“Cowards die many times before their deaths, the valiant never taste death but once.”~Julius Caesar

You know how I love a good quote. There’s something genius in the way a simple concept can be expressed through imagery created by words.

Think about how many times you’ve confronted death or defeat, yet how many times did you actually die? Hmmmm. I’m still here and—since you’re reading this—you are, too. J

The more important question may be: What does my life represent?

Am I a spiritual coward or has my Christian witness been strengthened because of my reaction to trials?

As with quotes, I love it when I “stumble” upon what I refer to as an (in)consequential word in the Bible.

“However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace.” Acts 20:24

When the Apostle Paul contemplated his return to Jerusalem, he met with friends and fellow believers. They warned him of the dangers he faced, but the Holy Spirit had already enlightened Paul. He recalled his past hardships, counted the costs, and yet decided to forge ahead.

Paul chose to live in the however. We all have a however—things that threaten our quality of life or our very existence—illness, family strife, financial shortfalls, deaths of loved ones. Even so, we can still finish the race and complete the task of testifying to the gospel of God’s grace. How much more does our testimony become enriched by trials than those who seem to glide through life unscathed?

I want to encourage you this week to take a few minutes and weigh your hardships against the full value of the gospel of God’s grace and then ask yourself:

How will I finish the race?

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If you have a prayer request, I’d love to hear from you. Either email me confidentially or share in the comments section so others can pray for you, as well. Please take a moment to check the prayer list and Jesse’s page above for updates.

We’ve been praying for a young mother, Courtney, who is battling a cancerous brain tumor. Please pray for Courtney as she travels to Duke in North Carolina for an MRI to check treatment progress. In addition to the surgeries she had last year, she is on chemotherapy. She takes two daily chemo meds and every two weeks she receives another chemo treatment of Avastin. Needless to say, the every two-month MRI is hard on Courtney’s nerves. Her sister posted this on her Caring Bridge site:

This Wednesday, we would once again like to ask you for special prayers for Courtney as she goes for her next MRI.  Her tests begin at 1:00 and conclude with an appointment with her oncologist at 3:30 for the results.  We are praying for a stable report or better yet, that God is improving and healing the tumor site in a miraculous way. Thank you in advance for those of you that are so faithful to pray for Courtney. That knowledge helps us get through these difficult days of testing and waiting for the results. 

Also, a new request for Patti, who is suspected to have lung or breast cancer based on initial diagnostic tests from hospitalization. She will return to the doctor on Friday for more definitive news. Please pray for her son and husband, as well, as they go through this difficult time of uncertainty.

Lift up your voice and lay your burden down 

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

Just A Closer Walk With Thee

Daily walking close to Thee

“I am weak, but Thou art strong; Jesus, keep me from all wrong; I’ll be satisfied as long; As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.”

Recognize the words to this old hymn? I love hymns because of their encouragement and theology.

I’m not a person who freely shares my struggles with others. Since I’ve started this weekly prayer post, a few followers have emailed me and asked, “How can I pray for you?” I appreciate this and those who silently pray because I feel it. I’m so humbled by the support. So perhaps you’ll indulge me for a few minutes while I share. 

I’ve never been what you’d consider athletic, though I try to stay physically active. I believe in taking responsibility for your own health as far as you’re able. Some people are blessed with better health than others, and this changes as we go through different seasons in life. 

For years I’ve dealt with sciatic nerve problems. Exercise helps, though finding the right balance can be a challenge, especially as I grow older. Sitting at a computer for long stretches doesn’t help and sometimes causes back and hip pain. I’m sure those of you who sit at a desk for long periods can relate. I’m fortunate to work from home, so I’m able to move around often, and this helps. 

However, within the last six months, the discomfort has started to disrupt my sleep, which in turn increases the problems during the day. So far it hasn’t slowed my productivity. I’ve learned to work around the unpleasant nature of the situation. 

Instead of going to the YMCA to work out, I’ve started walking in the mornings. After adjusting to the outdoor climate, especially in this South Carolina heat, I discovered something really neat. 

While the Y is bustling and noisy—outdoors it’s just God and me dwelling in nature! Genesis 3:8 describes God walking in the Garden of Eden in the cool of the day. I find it remarkable that Eve chose to jeopardize this relationship. If only she’d taken God at His word instead of learning the hard way, but that’s a topic for another post. J

I return from my morning walk hot and sweaty, but also refreshed physically and spiritually. Since my change in exercise, finding a comfortable sleep position has improved, and I don’t wake up as hobbled in the mornings. 

Through this and other trials, I’ve learned to appreciate Paul’s testimony of his “thorn.”

“Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:8-9a

I praise God for the pain that drove me into the comfort of His solitude each morning. I know He will sustain me through anything. 

Just a closer walk with Thee,

Grant it, Jesus, is my plea,

Daily walking close to Thee,

Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

I’d love to hear your praise reports about how God has worked in your life to remedy a difficult situation or walk with you through it.

Please share your prayer requests in the comment section or email me confidentially. I’ve created a separate page above to give updates on the U.S. soldier we’ve been praying for, Sgt. Jesse McCart. As I get news and photos of his progress, I’ll share on that page. Take a moment to check out the photos and his status, as well as a mailing address for him and other GIs in the same hospital who could use encouragement during their long recoveries. 

We’ve been praying for Karen Redding who was in hospice care with leukemia. She passed away this week. Praise God she’s no longer in pain, but pray for her husband and children as they deal with their grief and loss. 

Remember these folks battling cancer:

Courtney, young mother with brain tumor

TC’s father-in-law

Emily, 12-year-old with bone cancer

Lori, my cousin’s wife with terminal cancer

Sally continues to fight a 12-year battle with breast cancer

Would you also lift up the folks who visit this blog—that they would be ministered to at their point of need? God knows what this is.

Are you seeking a closer walk with God? Or perhaps a revelation about where to go or what to do in your life? Take a moment to worship with Third Day’s “Revelation” before we go to the Lord in prayer. 

Thank you for your faithful prayer support.

God bless,

Laura

 © Laura Hodges Poole

What Is Your Legacy?

Life's Sunset

“I look back on my life like a good day's work, it was done and I am satisfied with it.” Grandma Moses (American folk artist)

If you were given paper and pen to write a final statement about your life before your death, what would you write? The Apostle Paul wrote this passage in the shadow of impending execution. 

“For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:6-8

Paul had committed egregious sins prior to becoming a Christian. Formerly a Jewish zealot who persecuted Christians, he was equally fervent in leading people to the Christ he knew intimately. He instructed the early Christians, not only in behavior but in their life’s purpose.

One might say this final recorded statement reflected Paul’s legacy. Yet nothing in his closing remarks mentions punishment for past sins. 

Why?

Because he’d been forgiven. And once we’re forgiven, the only direction to go is forward. Paul’s ministry was the best example we have of the Christian faith manifested through works—bringing action to his testimony.

So, back to the piece of paper in front of you—the one that will hold your legacy. Can you write that you’ve fought the good fight? Finished the race? Kept the faith? 

Very few Christians can measure up to Paul’s accomplishments, but do we earnestly try? Regardless of man’s assessment, when we stand before God, will we hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant?”

Our legacy before God and man is created by living a life worthy of being remembered. 

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Father God, as we lift up the requests from many burdened hearts, we ask you to shine a light into our ministries, our lives, and our fellowship. Show us where we need more sacrificial living and dying to self. May your priorities be our priorities. Strengthen us for this service through your Son Jesus. 

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Please access last week’s post for a list of prior requests. For a comprehensive update on Sgt. Jesse McCart since being severely injured in Afghanistan, click here. Add your prayer needs in the comments section below so others can pray for you, as well. If you have a confidential request, leave it anonymously or email me. My contact info is above. 

Please pray for healing, comfort, and strength for the people listed below:

·       Latest from U.S. soldier Sgt. Jesse’s McCart’s family: Prayers, prayers and prayers on top of prayers are being answered for Jesse. His ventilator is out. He’s eating regular food and started physical therapy. He was up today in what his wife Cassie refers to as a 'wheelchair bed' doing some of the work of getting into it himself, doing exercises on his own to keep his body in shape, and received his Purple Heart.

·       TC’s father-in-law is battling cancer and isn’t doing well. He has lost more weight and is in a great deal of pain.

·       Sally Manning from Lexington as she continues to fight a 12-year battle with breast cancer.

·       Karen Redding with leukemia in hospice care, not doing well.

As we bring our petitions and praise to God, join me in worship with Matthew West’s “My Own Little World.”

"Start breaking my heart for what breaks Yours

Give me open hands and open doors"

God bless,

Laura

© Laura Hodges Poole

A Prayer For You

“Anything large enough for a wish to light upon, is large enough to hang a prayer upon.” George MacDonald (Scottish author, poet, and Christian minister)

I’m traveling this week, but my heart is with all of you as well as your prayer needs today.

The Bible overflows with wonderful prayers. The book of Psalms holds both sorrowful and praise-filled prayers. Often perceived as a sad book, Lamentations contains beautiful exaltations. The New Testament shares Jesus’ and the apostles’ prayers. 

One of my favorites is Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians. As we join together to pray for each other’s needs today, would you take a moment to meditate on this prayer as a precursor to your own? Although originally intended for the Ephesians, Paul’s prayer is for all Christians.

For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom his whole family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:14-21

Please add your prayer requests in the comments section below so others can pray for you. Feel free to email me confidential requests. My contact info is above. Remember the folks who have requested prayer in past weeks. I pray for safe celebrations of Independence Day and for the spiritual revival of this great nation!

Enjoy this song by Third Day, “God of Wonders,” as we lift our hands to the One who has granted us eternal freedom through Him.  

God bless,

Laura

Forgiveness and Prayer

Has someone ever betrayed you? Or maybe you’ve had a disagreement over something that seems trivial now? I think most of us can answer in the affirmative to one or both of these questions.

“They had such a sharp disagreement that they parted company. Barnabas took Mark and sailed for Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and left, commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord. He went through Syria and Cilicia, strengthening the churches.” Acts 15:39-41.

Paul and Barnabas were friends and colleagues. In fact, Barnabas came to Paul’s defense among the other disciples after Paul’s conversion to Christianity, recorded in the book of Acts. But as often happens, human frailties and personalities came in to play in their relationship. Acts 15 records their disagreement over whether or not Mark was reliable enough to accompany them in their ministry work.

By the end of Paul’s life, in his final letter to Timothy, he asks Timothy to come quickly and to “get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:11b.

Either Paul had regretted his strong stance, forgiven Mark’s past indiscretion, or Mark had proven himself through his ministry with Barnabas. The relationship had mended to the point where Paul asked for him, even as his own death was imminent.

Today, my prayer is for those hurt by broken relationships or sharp disagreements in their family or friendships. If you have a prayer request or would like to share a thought, please share in the comment section or email me, if you’d like it to stay confidential. Take a moment to pray for others' requests.

Please enjoy "Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us," sung by Todd Agnew, as you spend a few minutes in prayer.

True Love

Valentine’s Day is tomorrow—the traditional day to express love in a tangible way to those we hold dear. At least, that’s what the marketers tell us. A billion dollar industry, Valentine’s Day, instead, should emulate love in its truest form.

But what is love?

Love is difficult to define. We know it by feelings, by the actions of those around us, by the longevity of those who choose to be in our lives, and sometimes even by the actions we refuse to tolerate in others—tough love.

“…neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39

Wow! Can you think of another love equal to this expression by the Apostle Paul?

To say Paul’s life was difficult as a follower of Jesus is an understatement. Read 2 Corinthians 11:24-27, for his accounts of shipwreck, being stoned, beaten, sleepless nights, hunger, and thirst. Yet he never whined about his hardships, nor did he blame them on God. Instead, he embraced the idea of hardships as necessary to a Christian’s life. James continued this theme in his ministry. In doing so, their lives embodied the idea that, in spite of our trials, God is still present.

So then, how can Paul, despite his willingness to endure hardships and concede God’s presence in them, take it a step farther and equate the totality of his life with God’s love? There’s only one logical answer.

It’s a love that never separates. How could love be defined any better? There’s not a human equation that even comes close.

No matter what unknown tomorrow brings, God’s love will be present. I don’t know about you, but that’s a tremendous comfort to me.